Spirituality

School Masses are offered each week wherein the the pastor and the parish priests engage the the children in a discussion of the readings during the homily.  Students from each classroom and grade take turns proclaiming the readings and the petitions, as well as bringing up the gifts. Twice a year the students are invited to participate in a Reconciliation Service.  These services usually occur during Advent and Lent.

The second graders focus on their preparation and receipt of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and of First Communion.  The seventh graders spend the year in preparation for their receipt of the Sacrament of Confirmation.

The liturgical seasons are marked throughout the year.  Advent and Lent are highlighted in special ways by the children's participation in a school-wide theme for the season.  Service projects during Advent and Alms-giving during Lent show our commitment to serve others the way that Jesus commanded us.

Service is a recurring theme in all grades, especially Jr. High.  The 7th graders are learning about all the different levels of service available to serve God, family, and community.  The 8th graders are being challenged this year to honor their Confirmation commitment by continuing a level of service to the church.  As we are all called to serve, we try to instill this in all of our students.

The four traits of the Character Education Program at St. Daniel the Prophet School are Respect, Responsibility, Caring, and Trustworthiness.  Students who exemplify these traits receive Student of the Month recognition at Mass each month.  Learning to live these traits help our students learn to live as Jesus taught us.

We teach the Religion curriculum of the Archdiocese of Chicago.  We have several teachers on staff who are catechist certified, and many others who have begun their journey toward fulfilling the requirements.  We have a significant Catholic presence in the school, as we constantly strive for a strong Catholic Identity.

"...Jesus said, "Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdon of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14